The Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operations and Automation IFF in Magdeburg is committed to applied research and development. As an independent institute of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft which collaborates with industry, science and the state it performs this duty by producing innovative results in the relevant fields. The high dependence of our prosperity on the efficiency of our industries obligates us to continue to constantly and successfully strive for top positions in the fields that are important for producing industries. For that reason the focus is on innovation, assuring the quality of life through technological on the linking of research and applications as well as the establishment of technology enterprises.

Through intensive cooperation with the Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg we ensure that achieving goals by providing a suitable infrastructure and creating a pioneering atmosphere in the institute. In our fields of activity we are always intent on the know-how edge and aspire to strive for leadership in key fields. To this end, we work in interdisciplinary teams and closely cooperate with professional colleagues in relates fields nationally as well as internationally.

In the years to come the implementation of research results in future fields which advance innovation and the creation of jobs, will be the IFF's area of activity with the highest priority. The perspective, which previously concentrated on increasing the real net output of existing production systems, will be extended to the initiation and construction of new production units.

Besides the mastery of key technologies the greater inclusion of information technology and the addition of services in the scope of the planning design of manufacturing plants are of increasing significance.